What’s saving my life right now

It’s the middle of winter, February 2, which means Modern Mrs. Darcy is doing her annual linkup for what’s saving our lives. I’ve never read Barbara Brown Taylor, but I’ve seen these posts around and it’s always interesting to see what brings others joy.

In this particularly dark season for me, these things have kept me smiling:

I first heard about this tea from Anne at Modern Mrs. Darcy, but really – it is the BEST. It’s like drinking a mild Red Hot candy. It’s a little pricier than the tea I normally buy, but it’s so worth it.

2. Toby

I’ve wanted a cat for the longest time, and ever since I’ve brought Toby home last fall, he’s brought me so much joy! Sure, the first couple of months were rough, but now that he’s a teenage cat, he’s started to sleep more and generally calm down.

My small group leader recently challenged us to read our Bibles for ten minutes every day for a week. I had been following a She Reads Truth study plan, so I thought this would be an easy thing to add on. I was surprised by just how much I learned by just flipping to a random page instead of following the prescribed reading. It was freeing and encouraging. It also helps that this is the prettiest Bible I’ve ever owned.

I love making lists. I make at least two to-do lists every day – one at work and one for home – and it’s the best feeling crossing off items. That’s why I love this journal. There’s a weekly prompt, like creating a song playlist for this season of life or listing your happiest moments. It’s a good way to reflect and it’s easy to do – meaning it’s more likely I’ll actually use it!

5. Trip planning

Due to some pretty big changes, a lot of the future plans I’d been counting on have vanished. I’ve started filling in my calendar with trips – one with my mom to Texas and hopefully one with my friend to Florida – to have something to look forward to. It’s been so fun finding places to stay and figuring out what we’re going to do. I can’t wait to go!

6. Grey’s Anatomy

I had no idea this show was so addicting! It makes sense, seeing how it’s on its 14th season, but wow. It’s good. I do have to look away during the gross surgeries, but the drama makes up for it.

7. Conversations with friends and family

I’ve never been more thankful for my friends and my family. In this rough patch, they’ve listened to me, supported me and encouraged me.